Junior AFL stars ready to play in the Shoalhaven

HUNDREDS of budding AFL stars will hit the Shoalhaven this weekend for the 2014 Challenge.

HUNDREDS of budding AFL stars will hit the Shoalhaven this weekend for the 2014 Challenge.

In its’ third year, the challenge will showcase many up and coming stars, as youngsters from many regions of NSW strut their stuff, in under 12,14 and 16 age groups.

Games will commence on Friday evening at both West Street Oval in Nowra, and Artie Smith Oval in Bomaderry, and continue through the weekend at those venues as well as the Nowra Showgrounds.

Added to the program this year will be girls youth games, featuring teams from the South Coast, Sydney, Newcastle and Central Coast, with preliminary games and the final being played at West Street Oval on Saturday.

Two South Coast teams will also play a senior representative match on Saturday at the showgrounds, with South Coast taking on Sapphire Coast in what will be a keenly contested match at 2pm.

The main focus of the weekend though, will be the three age groups competing in the boys division, with under 12s and 14s playing at West St and the Showgrounds, and the under 16s at Artie Smith Oval.

After the success of last year’s competition, it is anticipated that a huge number of AFL enthusiasts will converge on the venues to watch these talented youngsters in action.

Teams will be coming from far and wide, with Newcastle now being added to the competition, joining Shoalhaven, Sapphire Coast, Illawarra, Central West/Riverina and Central Coast in this great development opportunity for kids in our great sport.

The preliminary and qualifying rounds will commence on Friday at West Street Oval for under 12s and 14s at 5pm, and at Artie Smith Oval for under 16s at 6pm.

Finals for each age group will be played at the respective venues on Sunday at 12pm.

The local AFL clubs, and representatives of AFL NSW/ACT will look after the weekend activities, and wish all who participate, the best of luck, and most importantly, enjoy your experience.